We often find ourselves trapped in by our greed for wealth and think that happiness lies in material possessions. However, real happiness stems from deeper relationships and experiences. Here are a few key reminders towards happiness:
- Being with Family and Friends
Surrounding yourself with the loved ones is a powerful reminder of your roots and your place in the world. Meaningful relationships such as these constitute the foundation of your well-being, provide you with a sense of belongingness and help building up relationships. May be, by sharing your joy with your friends or joining to celebrate the joy in the family you are involving in the process. They might bear witness to your growth, have supported you through your struggles, and celebrated your successes. Being with them will bring joy and comfort to you, especially when you need them the most.
- Play More!
Playfulness is not just for kids! As adults, we often forget to make time for fun and imagination. Remember the thrill of playing outside until the streetlights came on? Or the joy of creating your adventures through play? Unfortunately, children today have eight hours less of playtime each week compared to two decades ago, and the adults are even worse off. When was the last time you let loose yourself and ran around for pure enjoyment? Or start a spontaneous game in the backyard? Embracing playfulness can transform every aspect of life, from exercise to daily routines. It’s a powerful reminder that you have the power to create, relax, and have fun. By being spontaneous, you open yourself up to new experiences and perspectives.
- Being Alone, but not Lonely
In today’s fast-paced world, solitude is a rare but precious commodity. Yet, it’s essential to carve out time for personal reflection and go deeper into your inner self. Whether it is through taking a nap or reading or hobbies or nature walks or being in solitude, it allows you to tap into your unique being and appreciate your individuality. Being alone doesn’t mean being lonely; it means embracing the beauty of quiet contemplation. Life is inevitably marked by struggles, sorrows, and loss – the passing of loved ones, personal tragedies, and unexpected hardships. In these moments, solitude can be a powerful catalyst for healing and growth. It’s a chance to reminisce about joyful times, acknowledge the kindness of others, and discover the resilience within yourself.
- The Gift of Small Kindnesses
The Golden Rule, ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,’ is a timeless wisdom that guides us to treat others with the same kindness and respect we desire for ourselves. On tough days, when everything seems to be going wrong, a small act of kindness can be a beacon of hope. A friendly word, a helping hand, or a thoughtful gesture from someone else can brighten our mood and restore our faith in humanity. And when we spare it forward, doing something kind for someone else, it creates a ripple effect of compassion and empathy. By spreading kindness, we build a more supportive and caring community, where everyone can thrive.
- Laugh More!
Laughter is a divine gift that brings lightness and joy to our lives. With humour, we can laugh at ourselves and find the absurdity in life’s challenges. Everyone has their own unique sense of humour, and a timely laughter can turn around a difficult day. As Sarah said in Genesis 21:6, “God has made laughter for me, everyone who hears will laugh with me.” Laughter is indeed contagious, triggering a response in our brains that spreads a smile across our faces. Research even suggests that positive emotions can spread from person to person, just like laughter. By embracing humour, we can create a ripple effect of joy and warmth, bringing people together and making the world a brighter place.
Happiness often surprises us in quiet, unexpected moments – a shared laugh with a stranger, a heartfelt conversation with a loved one, or a peaceful afternoon spent alone. It’s found in the simple joys of exploring new experiences, being on the move, and savouring time with yourself. While money may provide comforts like a first-class home, but true happiness comes from the sense of belongingness and personal growth that fill that space. It’s a feeling that won’t be on sale, but to be cultivated through relationships, self-discovery, and striving to live the life to the fullest. Happiness is a gift that requires no financial investment, but an open heart and mind.